Katy Brink

Name:

Katy Brink

MSU Degree:

BA in English, 2004

Current Position:

Cross-cultural ministry, church-planting; administrative assistant

Organization:

Prefer not to name it online

When you graduated with a degree in English from MSU, what were your plans for your future?  Has your career path mostly realized those early plans, or have you discovered new plans and goals along the way?

I really didn’t know what I wanted to do with an English degree. I chose to major in English because I enjoyed reading and knew I was a relatively decent writer; I thought maybe I would pursue an editing job. I have done some writing and tutoring/editing over the years and may pursue those things in a larger way at some point in the future, but I never expected to live cross-culturally and learn other languages.

Which skills that you learned as an English major do you use most in your job?

An English degree serves as a wonderful foundation for so many parts of life in general and also in multiple specific career paths. In my case, being able to communicate well with the written word – something I fear is a dying art! – helps me in various forums, both in my work as an administrative assistant for our organization in Europe and in communication related to our specific ministry work.  Knowing how to think critically is an important skill as I engage with people from all over the world and various faith backgrounds. And honestly, a good grasp of the English language and how grammar works has benefitted me as I’ve learned two foreign languages over the years.

Are there common misconceptions about your career field, which current English majors might share, that you have learned the truth about?

One misconception might be that someone needs a seminary degree or a degree from a Bible college in order to work in cross-cultural ministry. Those things can certainly be advantages, but in many cases are not necessary. I moved abroad with my family when I had young children and very little experience with other cultures, and I have found a fulfilling life with the work God has given me/us to do. If you would like to read further about the early years of my life abroad, feel free to check out my ebook, Clotheslines and Callings: Home Is Where My Laundry Is, on Amazon.

What advice do you have for undergraduate English majors right now who might want to follow the career path you did?

Following up on my previous answer, I would recommend giving cross-cultural ministry a try! Search for a short opportunity if you aren’t sure, and see how you like it. You never know how God might surprise you.

[Updated May 2026]